ADHD Medication in the UK
A psychiatrist will prescribe ADHD medication to adults if they have been diagnosed. However, the NHS is experiencing shortages of many central nervous system stimulants and ADHD medicines.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand. adhd and medication is expected to be cured between December 2023 and Oct 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name used to describe amphetamine salts in a mix. It's a potent stimulant that when used correctly can help people with ADHD concentrate, stay on task and manage their impulses. It's prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as narcolepsy.
It was the first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat both of these conditions. It's a central nervous system stimulant, which increases the amount of norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters found in the brain. The increased levels of these chemicals help in focusing, and boost alertness in people with narcolepsy.
Adderall is prescribed by doctors to ADHD patients in tablet or liquid forms. It is taken as required, or several times per day to help improve symptoms of the condition. adhd medication names can be afflicted with side effects, such as headaches, dry mouth, and stomach upset. Some people can develop a tolerance to the medication and will need to take more than their doctor recommends to achieve the same results.
People who suffer from certain heart diseases should not take stimulants, including Adderall. They can raise the heart rate and cause anxiety, which is dangerous for those with heart issues or an history of heart disease. People with glaucoma, kidney or liver issues should also talk to their doctor before taking Adderall. Adderall may also cause birth defects in babies born to women who took it during pregnancy. There isn't enough information about how the drug can affect a fetus, however studies on animals have revealed negative effects.
The effects of stimulants can slow growth in children but the effects are minimal and the majority of kids catch up when they reach adulthood. They can also trigger psychosis which is a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a significant possibility of abuse. adhd medication names can be abused by people who don't suffer from ADHD who are using it to feel more energetic or lose weight. People who are using it illegally will often mix it with other substances, such as cocaine, to increase the effects. It can also be detected in tests for drugs used for sports or work.
3. Concerto
Concerta, just like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release medicine that is taken in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of two neurotransmitters found in the brain, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. This may improve concentration as well as other ADHD symptoms. It is important that you follow the exact dosage recommended by your physician. Do not increase your dosage without consulting your doctor. This can cause side negative effects. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a place that is safe of children.
Another common side effect of this medication is insomnia, which can make it difficult to sleep. It is recommended to take the medication at the same time each day. You can track your medication by using an alarm clock or pill reminder. This drug is in pregnancy category C. It is only recommended to use it if the benefits outweigh any risk for the baby's development. Long-term use of methylphenidate is not recommended as it could lead to dependence.
This medication can also cause tics. These are unintentional, frequent actions or sounds. This can include eye blinking and head bobbing as well as humming. This is something that most people will not experience, but in the event that it happens to you, speak to your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a treatment option for both adults and children to treat ADHD. It contains dexmethylphenidate, which stimulates the central nervous system and decreases the impulsivity of ADHD patients.
Focalin along with other stimulant medications can help increase the levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters boost attention, vigilance, and control of impulses. They are responsible for the communication between nerve cells. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. Focalin dosage varies according to the age of the patient, and may be long-acting or short-acting. The immediate-release tablets have a short-acting effect and extended-release tablets act longer.
The long-term use of focalin can result in serious side effects. Focalin has been linked with depression, especially in those who are not predisposed. This is because the drug increases neurotransmitters for a prolonged time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry as well as a psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent hours fighting what she believes to be the overprescription of stimulant drugs for mental disorders.
Some individuals may also experience psychomotor impairment and agitation when they use Focalin. Some people may feel temporarily energized and a little euphoric. Focalin can cause sleepiness and drowsiness. In addition, patients can occasionally develop tolerance to the drug, where they need higher and higher doses to get the same effect. This can lead to dependence and addiction.
To reduce the risk of Focalin misuse doctors should periodically review the risks for their patients and look for signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. They must advise patients to store the drug in a safe location and not to give it to anyone else. They should also inform patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses and how to dispose unused medication.
Unlike other ADHD medications, Focalin does not take effect immediately. The effects of the drug begin within two to three hours after taking it and last for as long as four hours. This is why it is usually prescribed with other non-medication therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy.